DEFECTIVE COMPACT FLUORESCENT LAMPS

Following complaints from the public about defective Fluorescent Lamps, the Bureau of Standards has carried out tests on a number of brands.

Among the brands tested were:
Lasonic; Everlight Energy Saver; Premium Energy Saving Bulb; Anchor Energy Saver Lamp; Premier; Light and Hylite.

These lamps have been found to be highly defective. They are in breach of the labelling standards and based on the findings of the tests, pose a danger to users.
A large number of these lamps do not light. The lamps have been found to consume more and in some cases less electrical power than is stated in the labelling. One fluorescent lamp actually caught fire while it was being tested.
Intensity of light is not indicated on the labels and information in the user instructions conflict with the actual rating on the product label. Instructions indicate the lamps should be used at 220/240V, while the rating on the label states that they should be used at 110/130V.

Although the named lamps originated in China there is no contact information for the manufacturer.

The Bureau is therefore warning the public not to purchase the named brands of fluorescent lamps. The public is advised to read all labels very carefully before purchasing any compact fluorescent lamp.

ISSUE DATE:  01 April 1, 2004